Brazilian hotshot Ronaldo is now back in the headlines for troubling goalkeepers rather than the medical profession. Our own Jamie Redknapp came across the Inter Milan striker when gracing World Cup 2002 was a distant pipe dream.

After returning for his club towards the end of the season and so nearly propelling them towards the title, Ronaldo announced his arrival in the Far East with Brazil's opening goal against Turkey on Monday. He again looked sharp as Brazil secured a second phase spot against China and scored against Costa Rica.

His beaming smile prompted one presenter to quip that the only man who could eat an apple through a tennis racket is back in business. No doubt a reference to Ronaldo's rather pronounced smile...

During Jamie's own lengthy spell on the sidelines he crossed 'the pond' to visit renowned knee specialist Dr Steadman and Ronaldo was also receiving treatment at the same time.

"I did a little bit with him in America," recalled Jamie. "He ended up not having an operation, but I did some stuff with him.

"It was funny, I did some video footage with him but, what with getting burgled at home I got it nicked and haven't seen it since!

"He looks great. It's nice to see people who have been struggling come back and do well. It makes you think 'yeah, I could too'."

So did the name Redknapp ring any bells with the Brazilian?

"Not really. He knew I played for Liverpool and bits like that, I knew he played for... Brazil.

"He spoke a little bit of English, funnily enough, and is a nice guy."